Brian Seals

The commission held discussions regarding several key infrastructure and operational items. This included a public hearing on the landfill fiber optic extension, the adoption of related plans and specifications, and the awarding of the construction contract for said project. Key organizational matters included a presentation on the findings of a comprehensive compensation and benefits study, along with recommendations to align vacation accrual policies with partner communities. Additionally, the commission reviewed the proposed FY27 budget, discussed a roll-off truck purchase recommendation, received updates on operations and strategic planning, and considered amendments to the employee handbook.

The Commission meeting focused on the consideration and adoption of Resolution 2026-05, which pertains to the Third Amendment to the Revised Intergovernmental Agreement between the County and Municipalities of Scott County for the Waste Commission. The Executive Director provided an overview of the proposed revisions to the 28E Agreement, noting that no external comments or feedback were received prior to the meeting.

The commission held a public hearing regarding plans and contract specifications for the Cell 10 Landfill Litter Fence. Key agenda items included updates on a compensation study and strategic planning, approval of the treasurer's report and various invoices, and a review of monthly operations and facility reports, including updates on landfill permit expansion and Cell 10 construction progress. The commission formally approved the plans for the landfill litter fence and awarded the construction contract to the successful bidder. Additionally, the commission reviewed the FY25 financial audit and discussed a notice of public hearing for upcoming fiber optic construction at the landfill.

The meeting began with the election of officers, resulting in Ken Beck as Chair, Anthony Heddlesten as Vice Chair, and Sally Rodriguez as Secretary/Treasurer. The Treasurer's Report indicated a total fund balance of $13.1 million as of December 31, 2025, with discussion on capital expenditures like Cell 10 construction and the purchase of a landfill compactor, alongside maintaining restricted reserve funds. Revenues are above budget at the Landfill, HHM, and Electronics Recovery Center, but below budget at the Recycling Facility due to market conditions. Significant invoices approved included funding through an EMS grant for a speed door installation, the purchase of a large hard drive shredder, and an evaporator for leachate management. Zero-interest funding secured through Closed Loop for cart purchases was detailed, and updates were provided on solid waste fees paid to the Iowa DNR. The Commission also made the initial payment for a staff compensation study. The FY25 Financial Audit, conducted by Eide Bailey, showed no new findings, with a repeat finding related to financial statement preparation assistance. Operations reports covered community outreach efforts, highlighting engagement metrics and future priorities for 2026, such as securing an amended landfill permit expected to add 15 years of life, progress on Cell 10 construction, and developing a 10-15 year strategic plan. The Commission approved the consideration of a Notice of Public Hearing for the Tall Litter Fencing project estimated to cost over $206,000, with an RFP release planned for March 12, 2026.

The agenda for the upcoming commission meeting includes the election of the Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary-Treasurer. Key items for consideration involve the approval of the Treasurer's Report and Invoices from the previous period, the FY2025 Financial Audit, and Monthly Operations & Facility Reports. A significant action item is the Consideration of a Notice of Public Hearing regarding the proposed Plans, Specifications, and Form of Contract for the Tall Litter Fencing project associated with Landfill Cell 10.